New mini electric car from Toyota to come next year

Next year, in 2012 we should see available a new electric car from Toyota.

This micro-subcompact car should be fun to drive, but only if you live in a city center, because the drive range is only about 50 miles…. Toyota says the Scion iQ can only go 50 miles on a charge. Well, I think it will still find a usage in cities for singles or couples without children.

As for now the price nor the availability is known, but should be available in US in 2012. It’s been tested by Toyota for more than a year already, and passed many security tests.

The competitors – Nissan Leaf does 73 miles per charge and Mitsubishi iMiev does 85 miles per charge. So it will be though…. -:). But who knows, it all depends of which price the car will sell.

Mr. Toyoda acknowledged the tremendous disaster that struck Japan on March 11, 2011 and thanked dealers for their extraordinary support and donations. Together, Toyota dealers and friends have contributed $11.5 million to Japan disaster relief.

Mr. Toyoda emphasized his focus on product and the company’s core philosophies that will make Toyota better than ever. Other themes from his speech included:

The all-new 2012 Camry and Camry Hybrid. Designed to meet the changing needs of the 21st Century driver, the new Camry will provide technologically advanced features, a contemporary design inside and out, improved performance and refined ride and handling.Future vision of mobility. New technology offerings like the all-new RAV4 EV and telematics advancements stemming from the Microsoft alliance will help make Toyota’s vehicles even better.Greater regional autonomy. Calling it his “most important goal,” Mr. Toyoda stated he will empower those with local knowledge to make their own decisions.

Looking forward, Mr. Toyoda said the company is more committed and more passionate than ever about being a leader in the automotive industry, adding, “We must earn it with our actions and with our words, with great products and great service and with genuine affection for our customers and our communities.”
Source: EcoGeek